In response to a fan, Conor McGregor says he is proud of the way he changed MMA

C. McGregor says he is proud of his career. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @thenotoriousmma

Like it or not, Conor McGregor has his place reserved as one of the greats in the history of MMA. According to the Irishman, the way he has changed the mixed martial arts scene in recent years is a source of personal pride. In a recent post on his Instagram account, the athlete answered questions from followers about how he feels about being a reference for the sport.

See too

Frankie Edgar advises BJ Penn to retire, says 'It's a shame to see him lose fight after fight'

Daniel Cormier says he understands Brock Lesnar's decision not to return to MMA

Alexander Gustafsson and Anthony Smith make weight and guarantee main fight this Saturday

“I feel proud. Imitation is one of the most sincere forms of homage. I put a lot of effort into this business (MMA). It's crazy. These are complicated businesses. Living a legacy, having a solid legacy built in this sport and seeing many athletes emerging and trying to be successful. This fills me with pride”, declared the Irishman.

Still answering questions, Conor reported on a detail that causes him a lot of euphoria. For the athlete, seeing the Irish flag printed on the new belt given to the current Ultimate champions is an indescribable feeling.

“One of my greatest recent prides was seeing that the new UFC belt has the Irish flag on it. It's there, alone. I can't put into words how proud you make me feel. There was a time when there were no Irish people in the UFC”, commented McGregor in a moment of rare emotion. “Some people laughed when they suggested that an Irishman could fight for the UFC, let alone win a fight, or win a belt, or be a challenger. Now, after all this work, all the focus, the Irish flag is on the UFC belt”, concluded Conor.

McGregor debuted for the UFC in 2013. With a provocative style and a different fighting style, the athlete didn't take long to attract attention after making ranks of defeated opponents. His greatest years of glory were between 2015 and 2017, when the athlete surpassed the unquestionable José Aldo in the featherweight title (up to 65,7), and, after moving up a category to defeat Eddie Alvarez, in the lightweight division (up to 70,3kg.).

His fame was such that he caught the attention of the legendary boxer, Floyd Mayeweather. The athletes managed to schedule a million-dollar fight and hold a boxing match watched by millions of people. Even defeated, Conor, there, became, in fact, a rich man.

Many believed that after the duel with Floyd, being financially stable, it would be difficult for MMA fans to see McGregor perform for the UFC again. The Irishman, however, surprised and returned to fight in October last year, to try to regain his lightweight title, which had been vacated. Conor was defeated, but continues to enjoy great prestige within the company and still enjoys some perks with board members.

Mike Tyson fires back at criticism about age and sends a message to Jake Paul: 'I like…'